Long layovers are common at Santiago de Chile Airport, thanks to domestic and international flight schedules. Whether you’ve got a couple hours or a lot more time to kill, make the most of your time with these 8 things to do on a layover at Santiago de Chile Airport.
1. Grab a bite to eat
Start your layover with a meal. While there aren’t endless options, most travellers should have no trouble finding something. For a sit-down meal, head to Gatsby, Ruby Tuesday, or Johnny Rockets. Other cafes and bars serve German, Italian, deli, and local eats. International chains include Subway, Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, Brioche Doree, and McDonald’s. The good news for overnight campers is that several eateries stay open 24-hours, both pre- and inside Security.
2. Hang out in a lounge
If you’ve always wanted to check out an airport lounge, now is your chance! Several lounges here are open to any traveller, no matter your airline or flight class, which means us Economy Class travellers can pay the entry fee and enjoy a comfortable environment, included food and drinks, WiFi, TV and news, and some peace and quiet. A few lounges even offer shower facilities. Pre-book a pass online or use your lounge membership program to gain entry. See our Santiago de Chile Airport Guide for details and locations.
3. Shop
A couple dozen shops will keep you entertained for a good while. You’ll find the usual airport shops, like convenience stores, Duty Free areas, and jewelry, technology, and souvenir shops. Window shop in Porsche Design, Carolina Herrrera, and Michael Kors. If you like chocolate, head to La Fete, Britt Shop, and Havanna to sample locally made options.
4. Pick up a new-to-you book
Finished with your current read? Head over to the Departures area and browse the bookshelf at the Book Swap. Leave behind your book and take another. Stickers at the shelves encourage you to recommend your book, so the next reader will know if it’s the right fit. Books cover a range of topics, including children’s books, with titles in Spanish and other languages.
5. Take a yoga class
The airport offers free yoga twice a week, so if your layover coincides with it, stop on by for a stretching session sure to get those kinks out of your neck. Times: Tuesdays at 6:00PM – 7:30PM and Wednesday/Thursdays at 3:00PM. Location: International Departures, inside Security, at Gate 15, downstairs from Patagonia Cafe.
6. Go sightseeing
If you can’t stand one more second in an airport, why not get out for some exploring? As long as you have a layover of 7 hours or more, heading into downtown Santiago is a perfect way to pass your time.
Your speediest option will be to hire a taxi, which will have you downtown in about 30 minutes. Head to the taxi counters in the Arrivals Hall to hire either a basic taxi (black or yellow) or a tourism taxi (blue), which run on meters or pre-set rates respectively. Don’t hire the independent taxi drivers who wander the terminal; they are often aggressive and significantly overcharge visitors. Buses are available to nearby metro stations, depending on the schedule and your destination.
Once in the city center, stroll around Cerro Santa Lucia, a historic spot with great views from the tower. Nearby Cerro San Cristobal is perched high on a hill, offering more views of the metropolis. If you’re not tired of views just yet, head to Sky Costanera’s observation deck. Prefer a learning experience? Visit the Museo Interactivo Mirador for hands-on science or the Museum of Memory and Human Rights. Patio Bellavista is a great place for shops and eateries, all in one place. Of course, you could skip the city altogether and opt for wine sampling at several nearby vineyards.
However you spend your time away from the airport, leave plenty of time to get back and make that next flight!
7. WiFi
WiFi is free and unlimited, so feel free to pass your layover browsing the internet.
8. Sleep
Getting some shuteye here is generally no issue for airport staff. Travellers report the areas inside Security, in both terminals, are more comfortable that pre-Security zones, with better sleeping spots and warmer temperatures. Some gate areas offer seats without armrests, so grab one if you want to lie down. Still, do anticipate some noise no matter your locale. Prefer a hotel? There’s a Holiday Inn directly across from the main terminal, plus a few more hotels located within a 10-minute drive. See our Santiago de Chile Airport Guide for details and locations.
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Santiago de Chile Airport. Visit our Santiago de Chile Airport Guide for more information about more services and facilities available, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.
